]]>MRI Scan]]>
—to see if a ligament has torn completely (rarely needed)

Toe sprains are graded according to ligament damage. In addition, the more ligaments damaged the more severe the injury.

Grade 1

Some microtearing of ligament tissue

Grade 2

Partial tearing of ligament tissue

Mild instability of the joint

Grade 3

Severe or complete tearing of ligament tissue

Significant instability of the joint

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Treatment

Treatment includes:

Self-care

Rest—avoid using the injured toe.

Ice—apply ice or a cold pack to your toe for 15 to 20 minutes, four times a day for 2 to 3 days or until the pain goes away. Wrap the ice or cold pack in a towel. Do not apply the ice directly to your skin.

Compression—if the injured toe is the big toe, wrap a two-inch elastic compression bandage around it. Put several wraps around the big toe and then include the rest of the forefoot within the bandage. This will limit swelling of your big toe. Other toes cannot be effectively compressed with a bandage.
It is important not to cut off blood circulation to your toe or any body part when using such wraps – do not make them very tight.

Elevation—keep the injured foot raised above the level of your heart for 48 hours (such as up on a pillow). This will help drain fluid and reduce swelling.

Protection—wear a shoe with a stiff sole to help protect the injured toe.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care
provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a
substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER
IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the
advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to
starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a
medical condition.